If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast or a sweet treat to share with friends, then look no further than this Citrus Cream Cheese Monkey Bread. It’s a showstopper that combines the soft, pull-apart goodness of monkey bread with a zesty, creamy filling that brightens every bite. Perfect for gatherings, brunch, or just a cozy weekend at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Citrus Cream Cheese Monkey Bread is packed with flavor and easy to make. The combination of sweet and tangy citrus, along with the creamy texture of the cream cheese, creates a perfect harmony. Plus, it’s made with frozen roll dough, which means you can whip it up without any hassle. Whether you’re serving it warm from the oven or at room temperature, it’s irresistible!
What’s in the Bowl
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious treat:
- 1 package frozen roll dough (25-ounce, typically 18 Rhodes rolls)
- Cooking spray
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
- 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries (like Craisins) or 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2/3 cup 1/3-less-fat cream cheese (6 ounces, though 8 ounces works too)
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind
- 1 tablespoon grated orange rind
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 5 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you start baking, ensure you have the following kitchen essentials:
- Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- 9×13 inch baking dish or bundt pan for baking
- Whisk for mixing the cream cheese filling
- Rubber spatula for scraping down the sides
- Oven mitts to handle hot pans
Citrus Cream Cheese Monkey Bread: From Prep to Plate
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this scrumptious Citrus Cream Cheese Monkey Bread.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by greasing your baking dish or bundt pan with cooking spray. This will ensure your monkey bread comes out easily once baked.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
Take your frozen roll dough and let it thaw slightly. Once it’s workable, cut each roll into quarters. This will allow them to become delicious little pieces that soak up all the flavors.
Step 3: Create the Citrus Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, fresh orange juice, grated lemon rind, and grated orange rind until smooth. This creamy mixture will be the star of your monkey bread.
Step 4: Combine the Sugar and Dried Fruit
In another bowl, mix together 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and your choice of dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots. This sweet blend will coat the dough pieces.
Step 5: Assemble the Dough Pieces
Take each quartered dough piece, dip it in the melted butter, and then roll it in the sugar and fruit mixture. Layer the coated pieces in your prepared baking dish, making sure to spread them evenly.
Step 6: Make the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and remaining granulated sugar. Pour this mixture over the assembled dough pieces. It will help bind everything together while creating a golden crust.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the monkey bread for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the bread is baking, create your glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 9: Glaze and Serve
Once the monkey bread is done baking and has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. Then, it’s time to dig in! Pull apart the pieces and enjoy the citrusy goodness.
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
If you’re looking to make this dish vegan or vegetarian-friendly, consider these swaps:
- Use a plant-based butter alternative instead of regular butter.
- Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese option.
- Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Use coconut sugar or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetener.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
If you’re new to making monkey bread, here are a few common errors and how to fix them:
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bread as it bakes. If it looks golden brown too early, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Underbaking: If the center feels doughy when you check it, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
- Too much filling: Ensure the cream cheese mixture is evenly distributed to avoid heavy pockets of filling.
- Sticking: If the dough sticks to your pan, ensure you’re generous with the cooking spray.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your Citrus Cream Cheese Monkey Bread fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- You can freeze the monkey bread by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Common Questions
Can I use fresh dough instead of frozen roll dough?
Yes! If you prefer to use fresh dough, you can prepare your own from scratch or use store-bought options. Just ensure it’s enough to create small pull-apart pieces.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the monkey bread the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
What can I substitute for the dried fruit?
If you’re not a fan of dried cranberries or apricots, you can use raisins, chopped pecans, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the monkey bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown and feel firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done!
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out some of our other favorites:
Let’s Eat
Now that you’ve prepared your Citrus Cream Cheese Monkey Bread, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy this delightful treat together. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone at the table. Happy baking!
Citrus Cream Cheese Monkey Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Dough - Grease your baking dish or bundt pan with cooking spray.
- Step 2: Roll and Cut - Thaw and cut each roll into quarters.
- Step 3: Create the Citrus Cream Cheese Filling - Beat together cream cheese, orange juice, lemon rind, and orange rind until smooth.
- Step 4: Combine the Sugar and Dried Fruit - Mix 3/4 cup of granulated sugar with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
- Step 5: Assemble the Dough Pieces - Dip quartered dough pieces in melted butter, then roll in the sugar and fruit mixture before layering in the baking dish.
- Step 6: Make the Egg Wash - Whisk together the egg and remaining granulated sugar and pour over the dough pieces.
- Step 7: Bake - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 8: Prepare the Glaze - Whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth.
- Step 9: Glaze and Serve - Drizzle the glaze over the baked monkey bread and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer storage.
- Freeze wrapped well for up to 3 months; reheat in the oven until heated through.
